In June, the Center’s Asia Program released its Toolkit on Rights Based Accountability and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. The resource provides a structured approach to delivering sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services during and after emergencies. Developed in Nepal, it can also be applied regionally and globally.  

The toolkit is designed to address the challenges faced in providing SRHR services during disasters, ensuring these services are accessible and equitable for affected populations. It was developed by the Center for Reproductive Rights under the humanitarian project “Rights Based Accountability Participation Project in Nepal.” In partnership with CARE Nepal, the Forum for Women, Law, and Development Nepal, and NEEDs Nepal, this project aims to bridge gaps in reproductive health access during crises. 

Providing practical guidelines and strategies, the toolkit’s goal is to support health professionals, humanitarian actors, local stakeholders, and rapid response committees in effectively responding to the SRHR needs of women, girls, and other vulnerable groups during emergencies. It was specifically designed for the context of Nepal, a country highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and climate-related events. The flexible framework can be adapted to different regional and cultural contexts within Nepal, as well as to settings in other countries.

Our Work in Nepal

Key Components of the Toolkit: 

The toolkit’s many resources include:

• Assessment Tools: Guidelines for evaluating the current SRHR service landscape and identifying gaps in disaster preparedness and response. 
• Service Delivery Guidelines: Best practices for setting up, maintaining, and delivering SRHR services in emergency contexts, including logistical support and staff training. 
• Rights-Based Framework: Blueprint for ensuring that SRHR services adhere to international human rights standards, promoting non-discrimination and equity. 
• Community Engagement Strategies: Approaches for involving local communities in the planning and implementation of SRHR services to ensure they are relevant and effective. 
• Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms: Tools for tracking the implementation and effectiveness of SRHR services and making necessary adjustments for improvement.

Contexts for Use:  

The toolkit is intended for use throughout all phases of a disaster:

• Pre-Disaster: For planning and preparedness, including risk assessments and setting up SRHR frameworks. 
• During Disaster: To guide the immediate response and setup of SRHR services. 
• Post-Disaster: For recovery and rebuilding efforts, ensuring that SRHR services are sustained and improved.

Outcomes: 

When applied to disaster response and recovery plans, the toolkit can:

• Enhance Accessibility: Ensure continuous availability of SRHR services despite disruptions caused by disasters. 
• Promote Equity: Align services with human rights principles to prevent discrimination and ensure equitable delivery. 
• Improve Effectiveness: Address existing gaps and challenges in SRHR service provision during emergencies.

Shankar Dhami, Technical Coordinator for Nepal, notes: “The toolkit is a vital resource for improving sexual and reproductive health services in disaster contexts. By providing comprehensive guidelines and strategies, the toolkit ensures that SRHR services are effectively delivered, rights are upheld, and communities are engaged. Its focus on assessment, rights-based approaches, community involvement, and rigorous monitoring makes it an essential tool for addressing the SRHR needs of women and girls during and after emergencies in Nepal.” 

Access the toolkit here.